Talisca
Benfica's Talisca celebrates his goal against Braga during their Portuguese Premier League match at the municipal stadium in Braga on 26 October 2014.Reuters

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing a move for Benfica forward Talisca in the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old Brazilian, who is capable of playing as a forward as well as an attacking midfielder, is now tipped to be the next big thing in football, following his excellent performances for Benfica in the Primeira Liga this season.

Talisca, who has netted eight goals in 10 Primeira Liga appearances since completing a €4m switch from Brazilian side Bahia this summer, is already being compared to some legendary players, with ex-Bahia official Newton Mota finding the youngster's playing style similar to former Brazil forward Rivaldo.

"His technique is very accurate but I liken him more to Rivaldo, who was also left-footed, with a long stride and ­capable of scoring goals from distance," Mota told the Express.

United are reportedly keen to land Talisca in January, with manager Louis van Gaal reportedly sending scouts to monitor the player during Benfica's recent Champions league clash against Monaco, according to the Express.

It is believed that van Gaal is also preparing to send scouts to watch him in action during Brazil's friendly against Austria on Tuesday.

However, United will certainly find a lot of competition for Talisca's signature as the youngster is being targeted by a host of top clubs including Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Benfica are also reportedly pushing the youngster to sign a new contract, with a buy-out clause of around £35million.

Meanwhile, United and Arsenal have reportedly been asked to fork out £47 million for Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels.

The 25-year-old, who has managed to establish himself as one of the world's best centre-backs, has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League, with Arsenal and United believed to be leading the race to sign him.

But Dortmund, who are tired of watching their top players leave on the cheap, have reportedly placed a whooping £47 million price tag on the German.

The new development may force both Arsenal and United to look at other alternatives as they might not be willing to spend so much on a defender.